Turkey's Education Minister Announces Expiry of 38,000 Teachers' Terms Amid Reassignment Controversy

Milli Eğitim Bakanı Yusuf Tekin has announced that the terms of service for approximately 38,000 teachers in project schools have expired. This statement comes amidst controversy over teacher reassignments in these schools, which are known for their specialized programs and high admission standards. Tekin emphasized that the reassignment process was initiated early to prevent any hardship for the affected teachers. He clarified that while 80% of these teachers had their terms extended, about 6,000 did not. The Bakan also refuted claims that teachers were being 'exiled,' stating that the reassignments were part of a routine process and that a performance evaluation was not conducted last year, leading to a one-year delay in implementing the regulation. The Bakan's comments were in response to allegations and protests regarding the reassignments, which have been criticized as lacking transparency and merit. Critics, including educators and students, argue that the moves are politically motivated and could undermine the quality of education in these prestigious institutions. The reassignment calendar was started early to allow teachers to apply for transfers before the general transfer period begins, as a form of positive discrimination. In addition to addressing the teacher reassignments, Bakan Tekin criticized CHP leader Özgür Özel for his remarks on the issue. Tekin accused Özel of using manipulative rhetoric to divert attention from controversies surrounding his own position, suggesting that Özel's criticisms were politically motivated rather than based on the welfare of the education system. Tekin also defended the protocol signed between the Ministry of Education and Ülkü Ocakları, stating it contributes to students' cultural, social, and artistic development.